MGA was pleased to join SPAR retailers, suppliers and industry representatives on the Gold Coast recently for the 2026 SPAR Australia Trade Show and Gala Awards Dinner.
Held at the Gold Coast Convention & Exhibition Centre from 29–31 July, the annual event brought together retailers, suppliers, directors and staff from across the SPAR network to connect, share ideas, explore new products and initiatives, and celebrate excellence in independent retail.
MGA CEO Martin Stirling and COO Mikaela McKenzie attended the event, providing a valuable opportunity to connect directly with SPAR retailers and hear about the opportunities and challenges they are experiencing in their businesses.
One of the highlights for the MGA team was receiving firsthand feedback from members about the support they have received from MGA’s advisory team. Hearing directly from retailers about the difference this support has made to their businesses reinforces why providing practical, trusted assistance to independent retailers remains such an important part of MGA’s work.
MGA also held an advocacy discussion with SPAR retailers during the event, providing an opportunity to hear directly about the issues affecting their businesses and communities. These conversations help ensure our advocacy priorities are informed by the experiences of independent retailers and that their voice is represented on the issues that matter to them.
Connecting the SPAR network
The Trade Show provided retailers with an opportunity to connect with key suppliers and explore the latest products, promotions and initiatives available across the network. SPAR Australia also highlighted the rollout of SPAR Rewards, its national loyalty program powered by Slyp and designed to strengthen connections between customers and the SPAR brand.
The three-day event concluded with the annual SPAR Gala Awards Dinner, celebrating the achievements of retailers, stores and suppliers from across the network.
Celebrating the 2026 SPAR Award winners
Congratulations to the 2026 Store of the Year Award winners:
- SPAR Store of the Year – SPAR Blackbutt
- SPAR Express Store of the Year – SPAR Express Urangan
The 2026 Department Award winners were:
- SPAR Grocery Award – SPAR Blackbutt
- SPAR Express Grocery Award – SPAR Express Yamba
- Dairy/Freezer Award – SPAR Malanda
- Fresh Food Award – SPAR Sussex Inlet
- Food To Go Award – SPAR Express Ryke Fuel (Kingaroy)
- Community/Partnership/Foundation Award – SPAR Jandowae
The Little SPAR Award, recognising individuals or families who have made an outstanding contribution to the SPAR community over many years, was presented to Will and Lisa Guy from SPAR Richmond. Will and Lisa have been part of the SPAR network since 2016 and were recognised for their dedication, community spirit and contribution to the network.
Staying connected with independent retailers
Events such as the SPAR Trade Show are an important opportunity for MGA to spend time with members and hear directly about what is happening in their stores, their workforces and their local communities.
Those conversations help inform the services and support MGA provides and, importantly, the issues we advocate for on behalf of independent retailers.
MGA congratulates all of the 2026 SPAR Award winners and nominees and thanks SPAR Australia for the opportunity to be part of another successful Trade Show.
